After completing one of the most consequential trades in NBA history, the Los Angeles Lakers could be circling back to the Dallas Mavericks for yet another major move—this time to address a pressing need at center.
The blockbuster deal that sent Luka Dončić, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris to Los Angeles in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick reshaped both franchises. While it brought immense star power to L.A., it also left a gaping hole in the Lakers’ frontcourt. Davis’ departure, combined with an already thin rotation of big men, proved costly—particularly in the playoffs, where the Lakers were outmuscled and out-rebounded by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Los Angeles Lakers Eyeing Dallas Mavericks As Potential Trade Partner to Bolster Frontcourt
As the offseason unfolds, L.A. is expected to aggressively pursue one, if not two, starting-caliber centers. Dallas, meanwhile, now finds itself with a surplus in the frontcourt. That surplus could make Daniel Gafford expendable.
According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, the Dallas Mavericks may prioritize retaining young center Dereck Lively II, making Gafford the more likely trade candidate:
“Dereck Lively is a year away from getting an extension. Daniel Gafford is entering the final year of his contract. Gafford reasonably and rightly wants to get starting center money,” MacMahon explained. “You can’t have AD on a max, Lively on a big contract and pay Gafford starting center money.”
Gafford’s expiring contract diminishes his trade value, which could make him an ideal, cost-effective acquisition for the Lakers—especially given his existing chemistry with Dončić. L.A.’s trade assets are limited to players like Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Austin Reaves, along with one first-round pick and possible pick swaps.
Still, with limited resources and long-term planning in mind, LA must be strategic. Acquiring Gafford could be a vital step toward building a more balanced roster without compromising their future flexibility.